Question & AnswerQ&A (DEPED ORDER NO. 59, S. 2003)
Classes are automatically suspended when PAG-ASA raises Signal No. 1 for pre-school and elementary levels, and Signal No. 2 for pre-school, elementary, and secondary levels in all public and private schools.
Yes, the automatic suspension applies to all public and private elementary and secondary schools.
The Superintendent decides on suspension if it covers the entire division; if it is for specific schools, the school principal or head decides. Local chief executives also have authority as heads of the local Disaster Coordinating Council.
Yes, as heads of the local Disaster Coordinating Council, local chief executives can decide on the suspension of classes and must inform the Superintendent and Regional Director.
Parents have the ultimate responsibility to decide if their children should go to school, even if no suspension order is issued, particularly if traveling poses risks to their children.
Announcements should be made by the Undersecretary for Regional Operations or Regional Director by 4:30 a.m. through broadcast media, and should indicate if suspension applies to the whole day or only afternoon sessions.
Make-up classes shall be held on Saturdays or weekdays beyond the original school calendar to ensure the required number of school days are completed.
Yes, public school teachers are required to hold make-up classes in lieu of suspended classes.
Yes, school officials and personnel designated as part of Disaster Coordinating Committees in evacuation centers must render service and coordinate with local government officials, even when classes are suspended.